Anaheim Ducks player Patrick Eaves hospitalized with Guillain-Barre syndrome
Patrick Eaves of the Anaheim Ducks skates to the puck uring the third period of a game against the New York Islanders at Honda Center on October 11, 2017 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
(KMSP) - Anaheim Ducks right wing Patrick Eaves has been hospitalized with with what is suspected to be Guillain-Barré syndrome, a disorder in which the body's immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system. Eaves is “currently resting comfortably in stable condition” at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach, Calif., according to a statement from the team.
After experiencing symptoms of weakness last week, Eaves was diagnosed and admitted to the intensive care unit. His condition stabilized over the weekend and he was transferred out of the ICU and is expected to make a full recovery.
"I want to thank Dr. Robert Watkins Sr. and Dr. Danny Benmoshe for their early diagnosis of my condition, along with the proactive Ducks medical team,” Eaves said in a statement. “Thanks to them and the incredible nurses at Hoag Hospital, I'm on the road to recovery. I've received tremendous amount of support over the last few days, most importantly from my family, friends and teammates. I'm determined to fully overcome this and return to the ice as soon as possible."
"Our sole focus at this time is on Patrick's general health and well-being. We are grateful his condition was diagnosed early by Dr. Robert Watkins Sr. and Dr. Danny Benmoshe, and thank the staff at Hoag Hospital and our own medical personnel for their efforts,” Ducks general manager Bob Murray said in a statement. “What defines Patrick Eaves is his strength of character, and that will serve him well in his recovery. Our thoughts are with Patrick and his family at this time."
Patrick Eaves grew up in Faribault, Minnesota and attended Shattuck-St Mary's School. He is the son of former Minnesota North Stars player and Wisconsin Badgers hockey coach Mike Eaves. The Eaves family continues to have strong ties to Minnesota, with Patrick’s brother Ben Eaves and dad Mike coaching together at St. Olaf College in Northfield.
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According to Mayo Clinic, weakness and tingling are usually the first symptoms of Guillain-Barré, but these sensations can quickly spread, eventually paralyzing your whole body. The exact cause of Guillain-Barre syndrome is unknown, but it often comes in the wake of an infectious illness like the stomach flu or a respiratory infection.
There's no known cure for Guillain-Barre, but treatments can ease symptoms and reduce the duration of the illness. Most people recover from Guillain-Barre, but some patients may experience lingering weakness or fatigue.